Method of and apparatus for applying a flexible sheet to a receptacle



June 14, 1938. T. H. NIFONG 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE T. H. NIFQNG June 14, 1938.

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 2 Q flwlms li IVE 011g. WW

June 14, 1938. 2,120,504 METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE T. H. NIFONG Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 3 3 wu ewtoo ns bf Wye/ad June 14, 1938. 1H; M F NG 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 4 mg" I E v 1 025 3 11'; 2""- Pad/o 747 Mill 3 wu can box,

ho/rams fill/ fang T. H. NIFONG June 14, 1938.

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR. APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 5 T/lOIICdG IV IVQQ IQ. WW

June 14, 1938. H MFONG 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 6 June 14, 1938. T. H. NIFONG 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 7 June 14, 1938. H, NIFQNG 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 19:55 10 Sheets-Sheet s 3 wu 0mm filo/lags If June 14, 1938. NIFONG 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1955 10 Sheets-Sheet 9 June 14, 1938. T. H. NIFONG 7 2,120,504

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A FLEXIBLE SHEET TO A RECEPTACLE Filed May 6, 1935 10 Sheets-Sheet 10 Patented June 14, 1938 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CEPTACLE Thomas H. Nifong, Winston-Salem, N. 0., assignor of one-halfi to George Agee, Winston- Salem, N. 0.

Application May 6, 1935, Serial No. 20,100

51 Claims.

My invention relates to a method of and apparatus for applying a flexible sheet or strip to a receptacle, for effecting an air tight joint between the closure element and body portion of the receptacle.

An important object of the invention is to provide apparatus for applying the sealing sheet or tape to receptacles or cans having shapes other than round, such as flat tobacco cans.

A further object of the invention is to provide a machine of the above mentioned character which will hold the sealing sheet or tape taut, prior to and during its application to the can, whereby the tape will efiect an air tight joint between the lid or top and body portion of the can.

A further object of the invention is to provide a machine of the above mentioned character which will first apply an adhesive to the tape, then transfer the tape to the can or receptacle, cut the applied tape from the remainder of the tape, and subsequently roll or iron the applied tape for providing a smooth tight joint.

A further object of the invention is to provide a machine of the above mentioned character which is automatic in operation and will rapidly apply the sealing tape or sheet to the cans.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent during the course of the following description.

In accordance with the practice of my method, a, sealing tape or strip is employed, which is preferably formed of transparent material, so that it will be substantially invisible when applied to a can or receptacle. The tape or strip may be formed of Cellophane, although other material may be employed. While it is preferred to have the tape or strip transparent, yet in some instances it may be translucent, or even opaque. The sealing tape has a fluid adhesive applied to a suitable length of the same, and the portion of the tape thus treated is held taut. The can or like receptacle to be treated is supported and held on end and is shifted into the operative position and is then held stationary. The leading end of the tape having the adhesive applied thereto, the adhesive not as yet having dried or set, is now brought into contact with the then stationary can, at the line of engagement between the body and top or cover of the can. The can thus supported on end with the leading end of the tape in engagement therewith, is now turned for substantially a complete revolution, while contacting with the taut tape. While this is done, pressure is applied to the top or lid of the can so that it will be securely seated, whereby the tape will effect an air tight joint between the top or lid and body portion. After the length of tape having the adhesive thereon isthus applied to the can, the applied length of tape is out from the remainder of the tape, and the cutting and application of the tape is such that the ends of the applied ta'pe are slightly overlapped. Immediately following this operation, the applied tape is subjected to a rolling or ironing action which firmly presses, smooths, and bonds the same to the can, prior to the final setting or drying of the adhesive. The adhesive is then allowed to completely dry or set and the operation is completed. x

It is thus seen that the receptacle or can is bodily supported on end, and pressure is applied to the top or lid of the can, whereby the can is securely clamped to the element holding the can. The pressure applied to the lid or top of the can also serves to hold the lid or top firmly seated, thereby aiding in the proper sealing operation. By supporting and advancing the can on end, the movement of the can is not dependent upon its shape in cross-section and cans of varying shapes in cross-section, including circular and other than circular, may be properly treated by my method and apparatus.

In the accompanying drawings forming a part of this application and in which like numerals are employed to designate like parts throughout the same,

Figure 1 is a-side elevation of a machine embodying my invention,

Figure 2 is a plan view of the same,

Figure 3 is a transverse vertical section taken on line 3-3 of Figure 2,

Figure 4 is a plan view, of the tape applying unit and associated elements, showing the tape holding nozzle in the first or starting position,

Figure 5 is a similar view showing the nozzle in the second position,

Figure 6 is a similar view showing the nozzle in the thirdposition,

Figure 7 is a perspective View of the tape holding nozzle and associated operating elements,

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the tape holding nozzle, viewed from theinner end of the same,

Figure 9 is a perspective View of the elements which support and.,actuate the tape holding nozzle, the same being separated, with the associated can holding device,

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the tape feeding, guiding, and tensioning means,

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the can clamping mechanism and associated elements,

Figure 12 is a plan view of the cutting mechanism, parts in central horizontal longitudinal section, and associated elements,

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the cutting mechanism and driving means, in section,

Figure 14 is a vertical section through the adhesive applying mechanism, taken on line |4-|4 of Figure 2,

Figure 15 is a perspective view of the control wheel and associated elements,

Figure 16 is a perspective view of the smoothing or ironing mechanism,

Figure 17 is a plan view of the Geneva wheel and associated elements, parts broken away, and parts in section taken on line of Figure 1, and,

Figure 14a is a detailed section through the sliding supporting connection of the adhesive receptacle.

In the drawings, wherein for the purpose of illustration is shown a preferred embodiment of my invention, the numeral 20 designates a table top supported by frame legs 2|. Arranged near and above the table top 26 is a rotatable support 22, preferably in the form of a spider and including a hub 23 and radial arms 24. This hub is rigidly mounted upon a vertical shaft 25 which is rotatable within a sleeve 26, to be more fully described. The sleeve 26 is rotatable within a bearing sleeve 21, rigidly attached to the table top 26, as shown at 28. At its lower end, the vertical shaft 25 is journalled in a stationary hearing 29, carried by stationary arms 38 or the like. These arms 30 are bolted to the table top 28. The spider arms 24 are provided at their outer ends with bearings 3|, receiving vertical stub shafts 32, carrying at their upper ends can receiving and holding devices 33, which are rigidly attached thereto. Each of these devices embodies a preferably circular bottom 34 and an upstanding strip 35, which is generally U-shaped in cross-section. The strip 35 is of course rigidly attached to the bottom 34 and forms therewith a pocket to receive the can 36. The trailing side 31 of the strip 35 is longer than the leading side 38, as more clearly shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6. The invention is in no sense restricted to the particular shape of the holding device as it must be varied to accommodate the particular can or receptacle to be held thereby. The holding device is shaped for the purpose of illustration for receiving a flat I tobacco can.

Means are provided to turn the can holding devices upon their vertical axes, during a portion of their travel with the spider, and also to lock them against such turning movement, during a portion of the same. To effect this operation, a gear 39 is rigidly mounted upon the lower end of each vertical stub shaft 32, and each gear 39 is provided at its bottom and projecting below the same with a cylindrical lug or boss 40, having a portion of one side cut away to provide a locking face 4|, which is concave, for a purpose to be described. The numeral 42 designates an operating member including a hub 43, preferably integral with the sleeve 26. Secured to the hub 43 are radial arms 44, to which are rigidly secured a rim including a circularly curved rack 45 and a circularly curved locking bar 46. The rack 45 is disposed above the locking bar 46, and the rack 45 engages with the gear 39, while the locking bar 46 is adapted to engage with the looking faces 4|, and these locking faces have the same circular curvature as the locking bar 46. The means to move the operating member will be described later.

A conveyor mechanism 41, Figures 2, 3 and 11, is provided to feed a can into each holding device as it is brought to the filling position. This conveyor mechanism comprises a stationary bottom 48, rigidly mounted upon the upper ends of arms or brackets 49, which in turn are secured to the table top 20. If desired, the outer end of the bottom 48 may be further supported by means of brackets 50, having elongated slots 5|, to receive a shaft 52. This shaft is supported by a forked arm 53, vertically arranged, and pivotally supported at 54. The arm 53 is swung in one direction by a spring 55, attached thereto and to a bracket 56. The swinging movement of the arm 53 does not preceptibly move the bottom 48, which will be supported against downward movement by the shaft 52. The numeral 51 designates an endless conveyor belt, the upper run of which travels upon the upper surface of the bottom 48, and this conveyor belt passes over a pulley 58, carried by the shaft 52 and pulley 59 carried by a shaft 60, journalled in bearings formed in the arms or brackets 49. The pulley 59 is rigidly mounted upon its shaft 60 to turn therewith. The means for driving the shaft 68 will be described later. The conveyor mechanism further comprises stationary sides 6| and 62, which are rigidly attached to the bottom 48. The side 62 may be termed the leading side with relation to the direction of turning movement of the spider, and the inner end of the side 62 is foreshortened with respect to the side 6| and carries a swinging clamping jaw 63, hinged there'- to, as shown at 64, and swinging in a horizontal plane toward and from the side 6|, the adjacent portion of the side 6| constituting a stationary jaw of a clamping device. The jaw 63 is swung inwardly by a retractile coil spring 65, attached to a pin 66 secured to the jaw 63 and a pin 61 secured to the side 6|. Arranged beneath the bottom 48 and near the inner end of the same is a horizontally swinging lever 68, pivoted to the bottom at 69 and carrying at its inner free end a roller Hi. Pivotally connected with the lever 68 between its ends is a link pivoted to a pin 12, secured to the movable jaw 63. Each spider arm 24 is provided upon its outer end and adjacent to the bearing 3| with a cam 13, to engage the roller 10' and thereby shift this roller and its lever '68 laterally, whereby the jaw 63 will be swung outwardly in opposition to its spring, to release the leading can. It may be stated at this point that the endless belt 51 is travelling continuously, and the intermittent feeding of the cans is effected by holding the leading can against advancing movement by the clamping device including the jaw 63, and releasing the leading can as the next can holding device is brought to the proper can receiving position. When the leading can is released by the clamping device, the weight of the cans on the conveyor belt 51 will cause the cans to travel with the conveyor belt, but when the leading can is held against movement by the clamping device, the belt will slip under the cans without effecting their feeding movement.

Means are provided to engage the top or lid of the can after it has been completely moved into the can holding device and before it has reached the tape applying position, to firmly press the lid or cover seated upon the can and to securely clamp the can .in the holding device, against accidental displacement. This means comprises a spider healing device 14, rigidly mounted upon the upper end of the vertical shaft 25, and carrying sockets 15, corresponding in number and arrangement to the arms of the spider. Vertical rods 16 have their upper ends slidably mounted within the sockets and are forced downwardly by compressible coil springs 11. These rods have their lower portions operating within guide bearings 18, formed upon the spider arms 24. Rigidly mounted upon the rods 16 are radial arms 19 carrying tubular heads '80, rotatably receiving presser elements 8|, the can engaging ends of which are preferably covered with rubber or the like. The presser head is arrangeddirectly over the top of the can 36 when shifted into the corresponding can holding device, as shown. The rod 16 is forced downwardly by thespring 11, and the downward movement of the rod is controlled by a roller 82, connected therewith, and arranged to engage a stationary cam segment 83, which is concentric with the shaft 25, and attached to the table top 20. The cam is arranged in the position shown, for a purpose to be more fully explained. The shaft 16 is splined in its bearing 16, so that it is free to reciprocate but cannot turn upon its longitudinal axis within the bearing and this will retain the arms 19 in the radial position.

Rigidly mounted upon the table 20 is a vertical post 84, having a flange 85, to support a spool 86, carrying a roll of tape 81, as shown. The roll is supported so that it may rotate upon its vertical axis and brake means is provided to regulate the turning movement of the roll and to prevent the same from rotating too freely. This brake means is shown as comprising resilient arm or spring 88, attached to the post 84, and carrying a roller 89, engaging the periphery of the roll. The tape may be of any suitable transparent or translucent material, such as cellophane, of any desired width. The tape 81 is passed about an idler roller 90, rotatably supported to turn about a vertical axis and also about a guide roller 9I, carried by an arm 92. The tape then passes to the tape holding device, to be described. The idler roller 90 is grooved and a companion adhesive applying roller 93, Figures 1, 2, 10 and. 14, is arranged to substantially contact with the periphery of the idler roller and firmly engage the tape 81 passing between these rollers. The adhesive applying roller 93 has its axis of rotation disposed at an angle of about 45 with respect to the perpendicular and is rigidly mounted upon an inclined shaft.94 journalled in bearings 95. At its lower end, the shaft 94 has a bevelled gear 96, to rotate therewith and this bevelled gear is driven by a bevelled gear 91, driven by a vertical shaft 98. The adhesive applying roller 93 operates through a slot 99, formed in the top of a glue pot I00, which is in turn supported upon a pedestal IOI. The pedestal IOI is provided at its top with guides I02 to receive flanges I03 carried by the glue pot so that the glue pot is horizontally adjustable touard and from the idler roller 90. By this means, the correct tension or frictional engagement between the adhesive applying roller 93 and the tape 81 is obtainable, and when this is found, the stop bolt I04 is adjusted to contact with the forward end of the flanges I03, and locked in this position by a nut I05. The glue pot may then be locked in the adjusted position v will be described later.

by a bolt or bolts I06. Should it be desired to remove the glue pot, this may be doneby un-- screwing the bolt or bolts I06, the glue pot, shaft 94 and bevelled gear 96, being removed as a unit. When this unit is again applied in position, the stop b'olt I04 will limit the inward movement of the glue pot so that the adhesive applying roller 93 will have a proper engagement or pressure upon the tape 81, as is obvious. The roller 93 rotates in the adhesive or glue Within the pot I00, and applies the glue to one side of the tape 81, as it travels forwardly upon the idler roller 90.

Means are provided for maintaining the coated portion of the tape under a suitable uniform tension, comprising a horizontally swinging arm I01, Figures 1 and 10, pivotally supported at I08. This arm I01 is swung in one direction by a retractile coil spring I09, connected with a stationary rod or post IIO, through an adjustable element III, such as a turnbuckle. At its free end, the arm I01 carries a grooved roller II2, engaging with the tape 81 to shift it laterally and regulate its tension.

Arranged between the adhesive applying mechanism and the rotatable spider, is the mecha nism which engages and holds the free end of the tape 81. This mechanism, Figures 7 and 9, includes a stationary bracket I I3, arranged beneath the table top 20 and rigidly secured thereto. This bracket carries bearings H4 and H5, receiving a vertical stub shaft I I6, which is turned by a gear or pinion II1, engaging a reciprocatory rack H8, operating within stationary guides H9. The means which operates the rack Rigidly attached to the upper end of the stub shaft II6, Figures 1, 7, and 9, is an L-shaped arm or bracket I20, mounted to swing horizontally in an opening I2I in the table top, Figure 2. The arm I20 is provided at its upper end with apertured knuckles I22, as shown. Both knuckles I22 carry an inclined knuckle extension I23. A supporting or link structure is provided to support a suction operated tape holding nozzle I24. This supporting or link structure includes an upstanding link I25, including downwardly diverging spaced arms I26, connected at their lower ends by a knuckle or head I21, apertured for receiving a pin or pivot I28, passing through the apertured knuckles I22. The knuckle I21 has a horizontally extending finger I29 rigidly secured thereto, and this finger is arranged above and spaced from stationary bracket I30 formed integral with the horizontal swinging bracket I20. A compressible coil spring I3I is arranged between these elements and tends to swing the link I25 toward the spider. Pivotally connected with the knuckle extension I23 at I32 is a link I34 included in the supporting or link structure. The links I25 and I34 are pivotally connected at I35 and I36, respectively, Figures '7 and 8, with a horizontal arm I31, carrying a head I38 with which the suction nozzle I24 is preferably rigidly connected. The connection may be effected by means of guides I39, receiving a tongue I40, effecting a sliding dove-tailed connection, with screws or bolts I4I serving to lock the parts together. The nozzle I24 has a recess I42, for engagement with the can 36. This recess is shown as curved to correspond to the contour of the can, but the shape of the recess will vary radial plane of the rotatable support which passes through the longitudinal axis of the can. The recess has a horizontal groove I45 to receive the rib I46 of the can so that the wall of the recess I42 may snugly engage with the can. The nozzle I24 is provided at its free end with a flat face I41, preferably vertical, but at an angle to the long dimension of the nozzle, and the nozzle has a port I48, which is vertically elongated so that it extends throughout substantially the entire width of the tape. This port is in communication with a coupling or nipple I49 having a flexible hose I50 connected therewith, and this hose is connected with a suitable source of vacuum. This source of vacuum may be a vacuum pump including a cylinder'I5I', Figure 1, having a plunger I52 reciprocating therein. The link I25 is swung inwardly toward the spider by the spring I3I, as stated, and means are provided to control this swinging movement. This means comprises a lever I5I, Figures '1 and 9, pivotally mounted between its ends at I52, upon the inner ends of the knuckle extensions I23. At its outer end the lever I5I carries a roller I53, adapted to engage behind a transverse plate I54 rigidly-attached to the arms I26, as shown. The lever I5I has its inner end swung upwardly by a retractile coil spring I55, so that the roller I53 will engage behind the plate I54. The inner end of the lever l5I carries a roller I56 and this roller is adapted to be depressed by the cams 13. When the roller I56 is depressed, roller I53 travels upwardly and releases plate I54, whereby the spring I3I shifts the supporting or link structure inwardly toward the receptacle. The link or supporting structure will hold the arm 31 in a horizontal position when the link or supporting structure is shifted inwardly, whereby the nozzle I24 will have the wall of its recess I42 vertically arranged to snugly press the flexible strip against the wall of the can, when the plate I54 is released, as stated. Before the roller I53 can again drop to the lower position behind this plate I54, the supporting or link structure must be shifted outwardly, and to efiect this shifting movement, the lug I29 is engaged by a depressing cam finger I51 rigidly mounted .upon each of the spider arms 24.

Means are provided to cut the tape after the same has been applied to the can in a manner to effect the overlapping of the ends of the cut tape. This means comprises, Figures 1, 2 and 12, a pedestal I58 located between the roll of tape 81 and the main spider. The pedestal is of course rigidly mounted upon the table top 20 and is provided at its upper end with bearings I58 and I60. A horizontal shaft I6I is rotatable in these hearings and is driven by a bevelled gear I62, driven by a bevelled gear I63, carried by a vertical rotatable shaft I64, as shown. The bearing I60 is provided with a reduced portion I65, for receiving a split collar I66, to be clamped thereon by means of a bolt I61. This collar carries a cone I68, which is ordinarily held stationary. This cone is hollow and its outer end is open so that it receives a rotatable disk I68, rigidly attached to the rotatable shaft I6I. A slide or carriage I10 has a, slidable dove-tailed connection with the disk I68, for radial adjustment, and is clamped in the selected. position to the same by bolts III or the like, operating through elongated slots I12. A radial arm I13 is rigidly attached to the slide or carriage I10, and has a bearing sleeve I14 clamped thereto. This bearing sleeve rotatably holds a shaft I15, having a rotary adjust the rotary cutter I16 toward or from its point of cutting action with the tape, this can be effected by radially adjusting the slide I10. but this adjustment will vary the position that the friction disk I11 will have with relation to the cone I68, and this will necessitate an adjustment of the cone longitudinally of the shaft I6I. which can be effected by manipulation of the bolt I61, as is obvious.

Rolling or ironing means to act upon the tape after it has been applied to the can and out, and before the adhesive has been completely dried is provided, Figures 2 and 3. This means comprises a vertical bracket I18, arranged substantially opposite the said conveyor mechanlsm. This bracket is rigidly mounted upon the table top 20 and is provided with a vertical bearing I18, receiving a vertical rock shaft I80, having a sleeve I8I rigidly secured thereto. A crank I8I is rigidly secured to thelower end of the sleeve I8I'. This crank is connected with a retractile coil spring I82 attached to a stationary element or rod I83, as shown. Near its upper end, the sleeve I8I' carries a horizontally swinging arm I84, provided at its free end with a roller I85, preferably covered with rubber or some other material which is relatively stifi but somewhat resilient. This roller is grooved at I86 to receive the rib I46 of the can I36. The spring I82 will therefore retain the roller I85 in firm engagement with the tape applied to the can, and this can is now bodily rotated, whereby the roller will iron or roll out the applied tape, insuring a smooth and tight application of the tape to the can. In order that the arm I84 will be held in a proper position prior to the approach of the can thereto, such arm is provided with a radial stop I81, rigidly attached thereto, adapted to engage with a stationary stop I88, secured to the bearing I19. While the apparatus shown and described illustrates means for effecting one rolling action upon the applied tape, the invention is' not necessarily restricted to such mode of operation, as additional rolling actions may be employed, if desired, and I also contemplate dispensing with the rolling action, in some instances.

The numeral I88 designates an inclined discharge chute, Figures 1 and 2, for receiving cans after the completion of the sealing operation. This chute has its high end I80 so positioned that the bottom 34 of the pocket or can holding device travels in proximity to the same. zontally arranged sweep arm I8I is supported near the intake end I80 at an elevation above the pocket 35 and will engage the can as it approaches-the chute I88 and will transfer the can to the chute. The arrangement of the sweep arm I9I is such that a can will be moved thereby into the discharge chute for about two-thirds of the length of the bottom of the can, before the can holding device passes the chute, the can then travelling down the chute by gravity.

Beneath the table 20 is a main horizontal drive shaft I92, journalled in fixed bearings I", Fig- A horistep-by-step turning movement and is turned for: one-fourth of a revolution each step. Between on the vertical shaft 25. This Geneva wheel has four radial slots 200, dividing the same into four equal segments I, having curved peripherial portions 202. Arranged near and parallel "with the vertical shaft is a vertical shaft 203, Figure 1, havi-ng a bevelled gear 204 rigidly secured to its lower end, and this bevelled gear is engaged and driven by a bevelled gear 205, driven by the shaft I92. The shaft 203 is journalle'd inv bearings 206 and is provided above this bearing with a locking disk 201, rigidly secured thereto and having substantially one-fourth of its area cut away, as shown at 201'. This locking disk travels into engagement with the curved peripherial portions 202, to lock the Geneva wheel against turning movement, during its interval of rest, and while the leading edge of the lockingdisk is travelling toward the Geneva wheel. The shaft 203 carries a radial crank 208, rigidly attached thereto and rotatable with the locking disk as a unit, and the longitudinal axis of this crank bisects the cut away segment 201' of the'locking disk 201. The

radial crank 208 carries at its outer end a roller 209, adapted to move into the radial slots 200 of the Geneva wheel, at the beginning of each step movement of the same. It is thus seen that the vertical shaft 25 will have a step-by-step movement and will be turnedforone-fourth of a revolution during each step andwill be locked against turning movement during the interval between the steps. a

The turning sleeve 26 projects below the bearing 21, Figures 1, 3, and 17, and has a collar 2'I0 keyed or otherwise attached thereto for rotation there-- with and this collar carries a crank 2| I, Figures 1 and 17, pivotally connected with a link 2I2, in turn pivotally connected with a lever 2I3. This lever, Figure 17, is pivoted at its outer endto'the frame 2I, as shown at 2I4, and is provided between its ends with a roller 2I5, operating within a substantially circular cam-groove 2 I 6, formed in the lower face of a horizontal disk-2H, which is rigidly mounted upon the upper end of the vertical shaft 203. The continuous rotation of the shaft 203 will .be transmitted to the cam disk 2I1, and the cam groove 2I6 and associated ele'- ments will'impart to the sleeve 26 the proper oscillating movement, for turning the operating member 42 in a proper manner, to be more fully described.

The conveyor of the can feeding mechanism is driven by a sprocket wheel 2I8, Figures 1 and 3,

' rigidly mounted on the shaft 60, and this sprocket tudinally thereon,'and is provided at one end with a clutch head 226, for coaction with a clutch head 221, formed upon a sleeve 228, to which the pully I94 is rigidly connected. The sleeve 228 is splined upon the shaft I92 to rotate therewith and be shifted longitudinally thereof by means of a fork 229, carrying rollers 230, operating ina groove I 23I.- This fork is carried by the rear end of a lever 232, pivoted between its ends, as shown at 233, and this lever extends to the forward end of the machine and is equipped with a latch 234, for coaction with a latch quadrant 235, Figure 2. The cam 223 is arranged tohave its periphery engage a roller 236, carried by a vertically swinging lever 231, the periphery of the cam having a dwell 238. The lever 231 is pivotally connected at its, lower end, as shown at 239, with a stationary bracket 240. At its upper end, the lever 231 is pivotally connected with the rear end of the rack bar H8, as shown at 24I,,Figure 7. The lever 231 is swung forwardly toward the cam 223, by meansof a retractile coil spring 242.

The gear 224 drives a gear 243, Figure 1, rigidly mounted upona horizontal jack shaft 244, carried in suitable'bearings 245. This jack shaft has a worm gear 246, rigidly secured thereto, driving a worm gear 241, Figure 3, rigidly mounted upon a counter-shaft 248, operating suitable bearings 249. This countersha'ft is provided at its rear end with a worm gear 250, Figures'3 and 13, rigidly secured thereto and'engaging a worm gear 25I, rigidly secured to the lower end of the shaft I64. I At the forward end of the shaft 248 is a worm gear 252, Figures 1, 2, 3, and 14, arranged to engage a worm gear 253, rigidly secured to the lower end of the vertical shaft 98.

The cam I 225 has its periphery engaging a roller 254, Figure 1, carried by a vertically swinging lever 255, pivotally supported at its forward .end, as shown at 256. The lever is swung upwardly by a retractile coil spring '251. The rear end of the lever is pivotally connected with a rod 258, connected with the plunger I52. It is thus seen that the rotation of the cam 225 is employed to reciprocate the plunger I52, for providing a suitable degree of vacuum within the cylinder I5I.', at the proper time.

The operation of the machine is as follows:

The shaft I92 is driven by the motor, and clutch head 2261s driven by clutch 221', whereby all units of the machine are caused to operate. Each pocket or holding device 33 is brought up to the can feeding mechanism, and remains stationary at the feeding mechanism for a sufficient length of time topermit of the can being properly introduced into the same. When the can holding mechanism or pocket approaches the can feeding mechanism, Figures 3 and 11, cam 13' engages roller 10, and jaw 63 of the clamping mechanism is swung outwardly to release the leading can, as explained, and the continuously travelling belt 51 will now advance the row of cans and the leading can will enter the pocket or holding device 33.

' When each holding device or pocket passes for a short distance beyond the rolling or ironing mechanism, its operation is controlled by the curved locking bar 46, which now engages the curved face 4I- of "the lug 40, this lug sliding around looking bar 46, whereby the holding device or pocket cannot turn upon its vertical axis, but bodily travels with the spider. .At the time that the holding device or pocket 33 reaches the can feeding mechanism, the Geneva mechanism causes the spider to stop, as explained, and at this time the can holding device or pocketcannot turn upon itsvertical axis and this is important as it insures the pocket being in the proper radialposition to receive the can from the feeding mechanism. The can holding device or pocket continues to be held against turning movement upon its longi- --tudinal axis until it has been advanced to the next position or step, at .which the tape is applied to the can, and the holding device'is turned upon itsaxis to wrap the tape about the can. When the can is moved into the holding device or pocket in the can feeding position, the clamping mechanism is raised or inactive, as the roller 82 is elevated, since it is travelling upon the cam 83. This is necessary, at the time that the canholding device or pocket is in the can receiving posistructure to swing inwardly by virtue of theaction, for the can couldnot otherwise be fed into the same, and it is also necessary when the can is being discharged from the pocket or holding device, at the end of the cycle of operation, as will be explained more fully. The circumferential extent of the cam is clearly shown in Figure 2,

and it will be readily seen that the clamping device is held raised throughout that portion of the cycle of operation through which the cam extends. When the spider passes from the can receiving position to the next tape applying position, at a it properly seats or closes the lid or cover and maintains the same in theseated'position until the tape is properly applied to the can, and secondly, it holds the can in the pocket in a secure manner against'accidental displacement. When the second position is reached, the can is radial with'relation to the nozzle I24, as shown in Fig- Shortly before the second position is' we 5. reached, the cam I3 will depress'roller I56 and raise roller I53, allowing the supporting or link tion of the spring I3I, whereby suction nozzle I24 will receive the edge of the can in its recess I42, and the spring I3I will firmly press the nozzle against the can. As should be stated at this time, the free end of the tape is engaging the fiat face I41, and the plunger I52 is now travelling downwardly whereby the free end of the tape is held by the nozzleand passes between the face I42 and the edge of the can. The tape has had adhesive applied to its surface. When the nozzle I24 thus swings'into engagement with-the can, the bracket I20 begins to turn clockwise-at the same rate of speed that the holding device 33 is turning upon its vertical axis, as shaft ,6 is now turned for that purpose by the rack-bar I I8, and this movement continues until the nozzle and can has reached the position C, Figure 6. By the time the can has reached the position B, Figure '5, the operating member 42 begins to travel counter-clockwise and its rack 45 will engage the gear 39, and turn this gear, and the can holding device or pocket 33 clockwise for effecting a complete r0.- tation of the can. As before stated, the rack-bar II8 swung the bracket I20 clockwise so that the outer radial position.

nozzle I24 travelled with the can from position B, Figure 5, to position C, Figure 6, and rackbar II8 continues this clockwise movement of the bracket I20 until the nozzle reaches position C, at which time the nozzle I 24 moves radially from the can to disengage the same, which is effected by the cam finger I51 depressing lug I29, allowing roller I53 to drop back behind plate I54, again holding the toggle structure in the Shaft H6 is concentric with shaft 32, when shaft 32 turns bracket I20 about the can and can holding device. The rack bar I I8 now reverses its movement and swings the bracket I20 counter-clockwise, returning the nozzle to the normal starting position, as indicated in Figure 4. Before or about the time the cam finger I57 depressed lug I29 to swing nozzle I24 from the can, plunger I52 started upon its upward movementreleasingthe vacuum in the nozzle I24 so that the nozzle would release the tape. When nozzle I24 reaches the starting position, Figure 4, its fiat face I4'I again contacts with the tape 81. While the nozzle I24 is being returned to thenormal starting position, the turning of the can was continued until a complete revolution was made. Particular attention is called to the fact that the tape 81 having the adhesive thereon is held taut at a substantially uniform tension during the entire revolution of the can, and this aids materially in the proper application of the tape. This uniform tension is effected by the brake roller 89 acting upon the roll of tape to retard its rotation, while the tape is fed entirely by the turning of the can while the tape is acted upon by the tension roller I I2. Just as the can has completed its rotation for applying the tape therezle will again grip the tape, now in contact therewith, which must be done before the tape is cut.

This cutting'operation occursimmediately after the nozzle thus grips the tape and this is effected by the rotary cutter I16 bodily moving into engagement with the tape at about the point D, Figure 12, the cutter again moving from such tape. The cut tape which is now applied to the can at the junction'of the lid or cover and body, has its end slightly overlapped. These operations have occurred while'the spider 22 was stationary. The Geneva gearing again turns the spider for onefourth of a revolution to' move the can from the tape applying position to the third or rolling or ironing position. When the can reaches the ironing or rolling position, the operating member 42 is then turned counter-clockwise, while the spider remains-stationary, and this causes the can holding device or pocket 33 to be rotated clockwise,

whereby the can is turned for a complete revolution and the-roller I85 presses upon, irons, or rolls the applied tape 81 before the adhesive has completely dried, thereby effecting a complete and firm seal betweenthe tape, can, and top or cover. The tape also securely connects the top or cover with the body of the can and effects an air-tight joint. When the can has reached the third or rolling position, the clamping mechanism including the head 80, is still in the lowered position, holding the can in place within the pocket. The Geneva gearing again turns the spider for about onefourth of a. revolution and the can and pocket holding the same is moved to the fourth position. As the can and holding device or pocket 33 approaches the fourth position, the roller 82 rides up'upon the cam 83 and the clamping member QVis elevated to release the can. When the Geneva gearing moves the can from the fourth position toward the first position, the can is engaged by the arm I 9| and is shifted generally radially out of the holding device or pocket 33 into the inclined chute I89 and will gravitate downwardly therein. By the time this holding device or pocket 33 travels from the fourth position to the first position, the cycle of operation is completed and the leading can is again fed into each pocket as it reaches the feeding position, and the several modes of operation occur with each pocket in succession, at the several positions.

The complete movements of the operating member 42 and receptacle holding device throughout the complete cycle of operation will now be given. In Figure 2, the receptacle holding device 33 may be regarded as in the first or can feeding position, while the spider is at rest. When in this position, with the spider at rest, the operating member 42 is now turning counterclockwise from the starting position, shown in Figure 2, and this turning movement is throughout one-fourth of a revolution, since the locking bar 46 extends throughout slightly more than one-half of the circumference of the operating member and the rack bar 45 does not extend throughout quite one-half of the circumference. This counter-clockwise turning movement of the operating member 42 will bring the rack-bar into mesh with the gear 39 of the receptacle holding device 33 in position one, while the locking bar disengages face 4 I, and when this occurs, the spider starts on its next step movement toward the second or strip applying position. While this is taking place, the operating member 42 turns clockwise at the same rate of speed as the spider and the receptacle holding device does not turn upon its axis, although the gear 39 is engaging the rack-bar 45. When the receptacle holding device reaches the second position, the operating member 42 is again in the normal starting position, Figure 2, and the rack-bar still engages one tooth of the gear 39, as more clearly shown in Figure 12. The spider is now at rest with the receptacle holding device in the second position, and the operating member 42 again turns counter-clockwise for one-fourth of a revolution, and this turns the receptacle holding device 33 clockwise for a complete revolution. The spider now starts on its next step, and the rack-bar 45 is still in mesh with the gear 39 and operating member 42 is again turned clockwise with the spider substantially at the same speed and when the operating member 42 again reaches the normal starting position, Figure 2, the receptacle holding device is in thethird or ironing position and is brought to rest, as the spider stops. The operating member 42 is again turned counterclockwise for one-fourth of a revolution and the rack-bar 45 turns gear 39 and the receptacle is rotated while in engagement with the ironing roller. As the end of the counter-clockwise movement of member 42 is reached, rack-bar 45 disengages gear 39 and locking bar 46 engages face 4| of lug 4D. The spider now starts on its next step and moves receptacle holding device 33 toward the fourth position, and the operating member 42 again travels clockwise substantially at the same rate of speed with the spider and. when the receptacle holding device 33 reaches the fourth position the operating member 42 is in the starting position, Figure 2. When the spider stops with the receptacle holding device in the fourth position, the operating member turns counter-clockwise for one-fourthof a revolution and the locking bar 46 slides upon the face 4|.

When the spider turns for the next step from the fourth position to the first or receptacle feed- .ing position, the operating member 42 turns clockwise for one-fourth of a revolution at the same rate of speed as the spider until the spider stops and the receptacle holding device is again in the first position, at which time the operating member 42 again turns counter-clockwise for one-fourth of a revolution to bring the rack-bar 45 in mesh with the gear 39 of the receptacle holding device in the first position, and the cycle of operation is repeated.

While I have shown my machine as embodying four pockets or holding devices 33, it will be understood that this number may be varied as the same may be increased or decreased, as desired. Further, the invention is in no sense restricted to the treatment of cans of the precise shape shown, as cans-of various shapes may be treated, such as round cans, square cans or the like. This would require but a slight modification of the machine, residing principally in changing the shape of the can holding devices and the shape of the recesses in the nozzle. Further, the invention is in no sense restricted to applying the tape to cans formed of tin or metal, as the same may be used to apply tape in a similar manner to various receptacles having closure elements, which receptacles may be formed of porcelain or other non-metallic substances.

It is to be understood that the form of my invention herewith shown and described is to be taken as a preferred example of the same and that various changes in the shape, size, and arrangement of parts may be resorted to, without departing from the spirit of my invention or the scope of the subjoined claims.

Having thus described my invention, I claim:

1. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a travelling support, a receptacle holding device mounted upon the travelling support and adapted to be turned upon its axis with relation to the travelling support, means to feed the receptacle into the receptacle holding device, means to pay out the strip and regulate its tension, a member having detachable connection with the end of the strip and movable toward the receptacle to bring the strip into contact with the side of the receptacle, means to move the member with the receptacle holding device when such device is turned, and means to cause an adhesive to be applied to the face of the strip next to the receptacle.

2. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a travelling support, a device mounted upon thesupport to receive and hold the receptacle on end and to turn the same upon its longitudinal axis with relation to the support, means to pay out the strip and regulate its ten sion, a member having detachable connection with one end of the strip and movable to bring the strip into contact with the side of the receptacle, means to move the member in a curved path so that it remains adjacent to the receptacle when the receptacle is turned upon its axis for a portion of its turning movement, means to cause an adhesive to be applied to the face of the strip next to the receptacle, and means to cut that portion of the strip after it is wrapped upon the receptacle from the remainder of the strip.

3. In a machine for applying'a flexible strip to a receptacle, means for supporting and holding the receptacle and turning the same upon its axis of rotation, a suction operated nozzle for holding the flexible strip, means to move the nozzle toward the supporting means so that the flexible strip is brought into contact with the side of the receptacle and held in such contact during a portion of the turning movement of the receptacle, means for regulating the feeding movement of the flexible strip, and means for causing an adhesive to be applied to the face of the strip next to the receptacle.

4. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a travelling support, a plurality of spaced receptacle holding devices mounted upon the support to travel therewith and pivoted thereon to turn upon their axes of rotation with relation thereto, means to effect a step-by-step travelling movement of the support, a trough arranged near the travelling support for receiving a plurality of receptacles, means to feed the receptacles longitudinally of the trough toward the travelling support, a clamping device normally engaging the leading receptacle to prevent its feeding movement, means actuated by the travelling support when each holding device is brought to a position adjacent to the trough for operating the clamping device so that it disengages the leading receptacle, a device arranged near the travelling support and spaced from the trough and engaging the free end portion of the flexible strip and adapted to apply the same to the side of the receptacle when such receptacle is shifted in proximity thereto, means coacting with the strip engaging device for supporting'the strip so that it will be wrapped about the receptacle when such receptacle is turned upon its axis, means to cause each receptacle holding device and the strip engaging device to turn in unison about a common axis of rotation when the free end of the strip is applied to the receptacle, means for causing an adhesive to be applied to the face of the strip next to the receptacle, and means to cut that portion of the strip after it is applied to the receptacle from the remainder of the strip.

5. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a substantially horizontal rotatable support, a plurality of circumferentially spaced holding devices pivotally mounted upon the rotatable support to travel therewith and turn upon their substantially vertical axes with relation thereto, each holding device being adapted to receive a receptacle on end, means to feed a receptacle to each holding device when shifted to a selected position, a plurality of pressure devices corresponding in number and arrangement to the receptacle holding devices to engage with the closure elements thereof to seat the same, upstanding reciprocatory rods connected with the rotatable support and carrying thepressure devices, resilient means to force the rods downwardly, a relatively stationary cam extending about the axis of rotation of the rotatable support and serving to raise the rods during a portion of their travel with the rotatable support, means engaging one end portion of the flexible strip and serving to apply the same to the side of the receptacle when each receptacle is shifted to the next selected position, means cooperating with the strip engaging means to cause the flexible strip to be wrapped about the receptacle when it is turned upon its axis, means to turn each holding device upon its axis when the flexible strip is applied to the receptacle therein, means to cause an adhesive to be applied to the face of the flexible strip next to the receptacle, and means to cut that portion of the flexible strip after it is wrapped about each receptacle from the remainder of the strip.

6. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a plurality of spaced receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the support to travel therewith and turn upon their axes with relation thereto, receptacle feeding mechanism arranged near the rotatable support, strip applying mechanism arranged near the rotatable support and circumferentially spaced from the feeding mechanism, means to effect a step-by-step movement of the rotatable support so that each receptacle holding device is brought to the feeding mechanism and to the strip applying mechanism in succession, pressure applying mechanism rotatable with the rotatable support and adapted to force the closure elements of the receptacles downwardly into proper seating engagement with the receptacles, a relatively stationary cam for controlling the action of the pressure applying mechanism, said cam holding the pressure applying mechanism elevated during a portion of its rotation, means for causing an adhesive to be applied to the surface of the strip next to the receptacle, and means to cut at a point adjacent to the receptacle that portion of the strip after it is applied to each receptacle from the remainder of the strip.

7. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a plurality of circumferentially spaced receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the support to travel therewith and turn upon their axes in relation thereto, receptacle feeding mechanism arranged near the rotatable support, a flexible strip applying mechanism arranged near the rotatable support in advance of the feeding mechanism, flexible strip ironing mechanism arranged in advance of the strip applying mechanism and near the rotatable support, means to effect a step-bystep movement of the rotatable support to bring each receptacle holding device in proximity to said mechanisms in succession, means carried by the rotatable support for setting into action the feeding mechanism and the strip applying mechanism when each holding device is brought into proximity to the same, and means to cut that portion of the flexible strip after it is wrapped about each'receptacle from the remainder of the strip.

8. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a plurality of circumferentially spaced receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the support, receptacle feeding mechanism arranged near the rotatable support, a flexible strip applying mechanism arranged near the rotatable support in advance of the feeding mechanism, flexible strip ironing mechanism arranged near the rotatable support in advance of the applying mechanism, means to effect step-by-step movement of the rotatable support to bring each receptacle holding device in succession in proximity to said mechanisms, automatic means to set into action the feeding mechanism and the applying mechanism when each receptacle holding device is brought into proximity thereto, means to turn each holding device upon its axis with relation to the rotatable support when each holding device is brought into proximity to the applying mechanism and the ironing mechanism, and means to cut that portion of the flexible strip after it is wrapped about each receptacle from the remainder of the strip. K

9. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a plurality of circumferentially spaced receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the support to travel therewith and turn upon their axes with relation thereto, receptacle feeding mechanism arranged near the rotatable support, a flexible strip applying mechanism arranged near the rotatable support in advance of the feeding mechanism, means to effect a step-by-step movement of the rotatable support to bring each receptacle holding device in succession in proximity to said mechanisms, automatic means to actuate the feeding mechanism and the applying mechanism when each receptacle holding device is brought into proximity thereto, means to turn each holding device upon its axis when brought into proximity to the applying mechanism, means to cause the applying mechanism to turn with the holding device, and means to cut that por tion of the flexible strip after it is wrapped about each receptacle from the remainder of the strip.

10. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a receptacle holding device, a device to hold the strip, means to actuate the strip holding device so that the strip is brought into engagement with the receptacle, and means to turn the receptacle holding device and the strip holding device in unison so that the receptacle is turned and the strip wrapped about such receptacle.

11. In a, machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a receptacle holding device, means to support the flexible strip including an element for movement in close relation to the receptacle, means to shift the element toward the receptacle to bring the strip into engagement with the receptacle, means to turn the receptacle holding device upon its axis, and means to move the element about the axis of rotation of the holding device.

12. In a machine forapplying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a receptacle holding device, means to support the flexible strip including an element for movement in close relation to the receptacle, means to turn the receptacle holding device upon its axis, and means to move the element toward the receptacle for applying the strip to the receptacle and causing the element to travel circumferentially with the receptacle when the receptacle is turned.

13. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a support, a supporting element pivoted upon the support to turn on its axis, a device movably mounted upon the supporting element for holding engagement with the flexible strip and shiftable toward the turning axis of the supporting element, means cooperating with the device for feeding the flexible strip, a rotatable receptacle holding device, means for supporting the receptacle holding device so that its axis of rotation is concentric with the turning axis of the supporting element, means to turn the supporting element, and means to rotate the receptacle holding device.

'14. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a support, a supporting element pivoted upon the support to turn on its axis, a device pivotally mounted upon the supporting element for holding engagement with the flexible strip and shiftable toward the turning axis of the supporting element, means cooperating with the device for feeding the flexible strip, a spring to swing the pivoted device in one direction, a releasable latch for holding the swinging device against such movement, a rotatable receptacle holding device, means for supporting the receptacle holding device so that its axis of rotation is concentric with the turning axis of the supporting element, means actuated by the last named supporting means to trip the releasable latch, and means to turn the supporting element upon its axis and rotate the receptacle holding device upon its axis.

15. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, as a sub-combination, a pivoted support, a link structure pivotally mounted upon the support, a suction nozzle carried by the link structure, automatic means to shift the link structure in one direction when released, and a releasable latch for holding the link structure against such shifting movement.

16. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, as a sub-combination, a pivoted support, a link structure pivotally mounted upon the support, a suction nozzle carried by the link structure, automatic means to shift the link structure from the set position when released, releasable means for holding the link structure in the set position, means to actuate the releasable means, and means to reset the link structure.

1'7. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a suction nozzle having a. strip holding face and a port extending through such face, said nozzle having a recess for receiving a portion of the receptacle, and movable means for supporting the nozzle.

18. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a nozzle having a strip holding face and a port extending through such face, and movable means for supporting the nozzle.

19. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a plurality of receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the rotatable support to travel therewith and turn upon their axes with relation thereto, receptacle feeding mechanism arranged near the rotatable support, a strip applying mechanism arranged near the rotatable support in advance of the receptacle feeding mechanism, strip ironing mechanism arranged near the rotatable support in advance of the strip applying mechanism, means to impart a step-by-step movement to the rotatable support to bring each receptacle holding devicein succession in proximity to each of said mechanisms, and means to positively hold each receptacle holding device against turning movement upon its axis when it is travelling with the rotatable support from one mechanism to the other and to rotate such holding device upon its axis when the rotatable support is stationary and the holding device is in proximity to the strip applying mechanism or the ironing mechanism.

20. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a plurality of receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the rotatable support, a gear and locking wheel connected with each receptacle holding device to control its turning movement, the looking wheel having a locking face, a control member including a circularly curved rack-bar and a circularly curved locking bar which are substantially oppositely arranged, the rack-bar engaging the gear and the locking bar the locking face of the locking wheel, means to pivotally support the control member in concentric relation to the rotatable support, means to effect a step-by-step turning movement of the rotatable support, and means to oscillate the controlmember.

21. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a rotatable support, a shaft rotatably mounted thereon, a receptacle holding device mounted upon the shaft, a gear and locking wheel rigidly mounted upon the shaft at different elevations, the locking wheel having a concave locking face, a control member including a circularly curved rack-bar and a circularly curved locking bar movable as a unit and arranged in different elevations, the rack-bar engaging the gear and the locking bar the circularly curved locking face, and means for pivotally supporting the control member in concentric relation to the rotatable support.

22. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, as a sub-combination, a pivoted control member including a rim embodying a curved rack-bar and a curved locking bar arranged substantially opposite each other and means to turn the control member in opposite directions.

23. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, as a sub-combination, a pivoted control member including a rim embodying a curved rack-bar and a curved. locking bar arranged substantially opposite each other and in different planes and means to turn the control member in opposite directions.

24. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a receptacle holding device, a support, means to pivotally support the receptacle holding device and the support so that they may turn about a common axis, means to turn the receptacle holding device and support about the common axis, a supporting element pivoted upon the support, a head carried by the supporting element to press the flexible strip against the receptacle, a spring to swing the supporting element in one direction, a releasable latch device for holding the supporting element against swinging movement by the action of the spring, means to trip the latch device, and means to reset the supporting element.

25. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a receptacle holding device, a support, means to pivotally support the receptacle holding device and the support so that they may turn about a common axis, a supporting element pivoted upon the support, a member carried by the supporting element to press the flexible strip against the receptacle, means to swing the pivoted supporting element toward the receptacle, and means to swing the pivoted supporting element from the receptacle.

26. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a-receptacle holding device, a support, means to pivotally support the receptacle holding device and the support in end-to end relation so that they may turn about a common axis, means to turn the receptacle holding device and support about the common axis, a

member to press the flexible strip against the receptacle, means to movably mount the member upon the support so that the member is movable with relation to the support toward and from the receptacle, and means to move the member toward and from the receptacle' 27. In a machine'for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a receptacle holding device, a support, means to pivotally support the receptacle holding device and the support in end-toend relation so that they may turn about a common axis, means to turn the receptacle holding device and support about the common axis, a member having a contact face having a contour corresponding to the contour of the receptacle and serving to press the flexible strip against the receptacle, means to movably mount the member upon the support, and means to move the member with relation to the support toward and from the receptacle.

28. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, as a sub-combination, a pivoted support, means to turn the support upon its pivot, a supporting element pivotally mounted upon the pivoted support, a head carried by the pivoted supporting element and serving to press the flexible strip against the receptacle, and means to move the pivoted supporting element in opposite directions with relation to the support.

29. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, as a sub-combination, a pivoted support, means to turn the pivoted support upon its pivot, an arm pivotally mounted upon the pivoted support, a head secured to the arm and serving to press the flexible strip against the receptacle, a spring to move the pivoted arm toward the receptacle, a latch device to hold the pivoted arm against movement by the spring, means to trip the latch device, and means to reset the pivoted arm.

30. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle, a travelling support, a plurality of spaced receptacle holding devices mounted upon the travelling support to travel therewith and pivoted thereon to turn upon their axes with relation thereto, means to move the travelling support, a trough arranged near the travelling support for receiving a plurality of receptacles, means to feed the receptacles through the trough toward the travelling support, means for controlling the movement of the leading receptacle so that it is introduced into the holding device when such holding device is brought to the receptacle receiving position, means operating in timed order with the travelling support for actuating the controlling means, a device adapted to press the flexible strip against the receptacle when the receptacle is brought to a selected position, means coacting with the device for supporting the strip so thatit will be wrapped about the receptacle when such receptacle is tumed' upon its axis, means to cause the receptacle holding device and strip pressing device to turn in unison about their axes and the strip pressing device to travel circumferentially with the receptacle holding device, and means for causing an adhesive to be applied to the face of the strip next to the receptacle.

31. In a machine for applying a flexible strip to a receptacle and its closure element, a substantially horizontal rotatable support, a plurality of circumferentially spaced substantially vertical receptacle holding devices pivotally mounted upon the rotatable support to travel therewith and turn upon their axes with relation thereto, means to feed a receptacle to each holding device when the holding device is shifted to a selected position, a plurality of pressure devices corresponding in number and arrangement to the receptacle holding devices to engage with the closure elements of the receptacles to seat the same, reciprocatory rods connected with the rotatable support and carrying the pressure devices, resilient means to force the rods downwardly, a relatively stationary cam track serving to retain the reciprocatory rods raised during a portion of their travel with the rotatable support, means serving to press the flexible strip against the side of the receptacle when the receptacle is shifted to a selected position, means cooperating with the strip 

